1998 Honda Prelude Owners Manual

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Caring for the Cassette Player The cassette player picks up dirt and oxides from the tape. This contami- nation builds up over time and causes the sound quality to degrade. To prevent this, you should clean the player after every 30 hours of use. Your dealer has a cleaning kit available. If you do not clean the cassette player regularly, it may eventually become impossible to remove the contamination with a normal cleaning kit. Comfort and Convenience Features The player automatically ejects cassettes that do not play properly. If it ejects a cassette before it begins to play, it is probably defective and should not be inserted again. You may have a cassette suddenly stop playing, reverse directions once or twice and then eject. This is normally an indication the tape is wound unevenly. It should play after the tape is manually rewound. Use 100-minute or shorter cassettes. Cassettes longer than that use thinner tape that may break or jam the drive. Look at the cassette before you insert it. If the tape is loose, tighten it by turning a hub with a pencil or your finger. If the label is peeling off, remove it from the cassette or it could cause the cassette to jam in the player. Never try to insert a warped or damaged cassette in the player. When they are not in use, store cassettes in their cases to protect them from dust and moisture. Never place cassettes where they will be exposed to direct sunlight, high heat, or high humidity. If a cassette is exposed to extreme heat or cold, let it reach a moderate temperature before inserting it in the player. Never try to insert foreign objects into the cassette player. Main MenuTable of ContentsstTheft Protection Your vehicle's audio system will disable itself if it is disconnected from electrical power for any reason. To make it work again, the user must enter a specific five-digit code in the Preset buttons. Because there are hundreds of number combinations possible from five digits, making the system work without knowing the exact code is nearly impossible. You should have received a card that lists your audio system's code number and serial number. It is best to store this card in a safe place at home. In addition, you should write the audio system's serial number in this Owner's Manual. If you should happen to lose the card, you must obtain the code number from your Honda dealer. To do this, you will need the system's serial number. If your vehicle's battery is discon- nected or goes dead, the audio system will disable itself. If this happens, you will see "Code" in the frequency display the next time you turn on the system. Use the Preset buttons to enter the five-digit code. If it is entered correctly, the radio will start playing. If you make a mistake entering the code, do not start over or try to correct your mistake. Complete the five-digit sequence, then enter the correct code. You have three tries to enter the correct code. If you are unsuccessful in three attempts, you must then leave the system on for one hour before trying again. Audio System You will have to store your favorite stations in the Preset buttons after the system begins working. Your original settings were lost when power was disconnected. Comfort and Convenience Features Main MenuTable of ContentsstBefore you begin driving your Honda, you should know what gasoline to use, and how to check the levels of important fluids. You also need to know how to properly store luggage or packages. The information in this section will help you. If you plan to add any accessories to your vehicle, please read the information in this section first. Before Driving Break-in Period.............................. 120 Gasoline.......................................... 120 Service Station Procedures .......... 121 Filling the Fuel Tank................. 121 Opening the Hood..................... 122 Oil Check................................ 123 Engine Coolant Check.......... 124 Fuel Economy................................ 125 Vehicle Condition...................... 125 Driving Habits............................ 125 Accessories and Modifications.... 126 Accessories................................. 126 Modifications............................. 127 Additional Safety Precaution.... 127 Carrying Cargo.............................. 128 Load Limit.................................. 129 Carrying Items in the Passenger Compartment......................... 129 Carrying Cargo in the Trunk or on a Roof Rack....................... 130 Before Driving Main MenustBreak-in Period, Gasoline Break-in Period Help assure your vehicle's future reliability and performance by paying extra attention to how you drive during the first 600 miles (1,000 km). During this period: Avoid full-throttle starts and rapid acceleration. Avoid hard braking. New brakes need to be broken-in by moderate use for the first 200 miles (300 km). You should follow these same re- commendations with an overhauled or exchanged engine, or when the brakes are relined. Gasoline Your Honda is designed to operate on premium unleaded gasoline with a pump octane number of 91 or higher. If you are unable to find premium unleaded gasoline, you may substi- tute an unleaded regular gasoline. The engine will compensate for the lower octane, but you may notice a slight decrease in power as a result. We recommend gasolines containing detergent additives that help prevent fuel system and engine deposits. Using gasoline containing lead will damage your vehicle's emission controls. This contributes to air pollution. In Canada, some gasolines contain an octane-enhancing additive called MMT. If you use such gasolines, your emission control system performance may deteriorate and the Malfunction Indicator Lamp on your instrument panel may turn on. If this happens, contact your authorized Honda dealer for service. Before Driving Main MenuTable of ContentsstGasoline is highly flammable and explosive. You can be burned or seriously injured when handling fuel. Stop the engine and keep heat, sparks, and flame away. Handle fuel only outdoors. Wipe up spills immediately. FUEL FILL CAP Filling the Fuel Tank Pull 1. Because the fuel fill cap is on the driver's side of the vehicle, park with that side closest to the service station pumps. 2. Open the fuel fill door by pulling on the handle to the left of the driver's seat. Service Station Procedures 3. Remove the fuel fill cap slowly. You may hear a hissing sound as pressure inside the tank escapes. Place the cap in the holder on the fuel fill door. 4. Stop filling the tank after the fuel pump automatically clicks off. Do not try to "top off" the tank, leave some room for the fuel to expand with temperature changes. 5. Screw the fuel fill cap back on, tighten it until it clicks. If you do not properly tighten the cap, the Malfunction Indicator Lamp may come on (see page 242). 6. Push the fuel fill door closed until it latches. Before Driving Main MenuTable of ContentsstService Station Procedures Opening the Hood SUPPORT ROD CLIP LATCH HOOD RELEASE HANDLE 1. Shift to Park or Neutral and set the parking brake. Pull the hood release handle located under the lower left corner of the dashboard. The hood will pop up slightly. 2. Standing in front of the vehicle, put your fingers under the front edge of the hood to the right of center. Slide your hand to the left until you feel the hood latch handle. Push this handle to the left until it releases the hood. Lift the hood. 3. Pull the support rod out of its clip and insert the end into the hole on the left side of the hood. To close the hood, lift it up slightly to remove the support rod from the hole. Put the support rod back into its holding clip. Lower the hood to about a foot (30 cm) above the fender, then let it drop. After closing the hood, make sure it is securely latched. Before Driving Main MenuTable of ContentsstOil Check DIPSTICK Check the engine oil level every time you fill the vehicle with fuel. Wait a few minutes after turning the engine off before you check the oil. 1. Remove the dipstick (orange handle). Service Station Procedures 2. Wipe the dipstick with a clean cloth or paper towel. 3. Insert it all the way back in its tube. CONTINUED Before Driving Main MenuTable of ContentsstService Station Procedures Engine Coolant Check Refer to Owner Maintenance Checks on page 171 for information on checking other items in your Honda. MAX MIN UPPER MARK LOWER MARK 4. Remove the dipstick again and check the level. It should be between the upper and lower marks. If it is near or below the lower mark, see Adding Oil on page 173. RESERVE TANK Look at the coolant level in the radiator reserve tank. Make sure it is between the MAX and MIN lines. If it is below the MIN line, see Adding Engine Coolant on page 177 for information on adding the proper coolant. Before Driving Main MenuTable of ContentsstDriving Habits You can improve fuel economy by driving moderately. Rapid acceler- ation, abrupt cornering, and hard braking use more fuel. Always drive in the highest gear that allows the engine to run and acceler- ate smoothly. Depending on traffic conditions, try to maintain a constant speed. Every time you slow down and speed up, your vehicle uses extra fuel. Use the cruise control, when appropriate, to increase fuel economy. Fuel Economy A cold engine uses more fuel than a warm engine. It is not necessary to "warm-up" a cold engine by letting it idle for a long time. You can drive away in about a minute, no matter how cold it is outside. The engine will warm up faster, and you get better fuel economy. To cut down on the number of "cold starts," try to combine several short trips into one. The air conditioning puts an extra load on the engine which makes it use more fuel. Turn off the A/C to cut down on air conditioning use. Use the flow-through ventilation when the outside air temperature is moderate. The condition of your vehicle and your driving habits are the two most important things that affect the fuel mileage you get. Vehicle Condition Always maintain your vehicle accord- ing to the maintenance schedule. This will keep it in top operating condition. An important part of that mainte- nance is the Owner Maintenance Checks (see page 171). For example, an underinflated tire causes more "rolling resistance," which uses fuel. It also wears out faster, so check the tire pressure at least monthly. In winter, the build-up of snow on your vehicle's underside adds weight and rolling resistance. Frequent cleaning helps your fuel mileage and reduces the chance of corrosion. Before Driving Main MenuTable of ContentsstAccessories and Modifications Modifying your vehicle, or installing some non-Honda accessories, can make your vehicle unsafe. Before you make any modifications or add any accessories, be sure to read the following information. Accessories Your dealer has Genuine Honda accessories that allow you to personalize your vehicle. These accessories have been designed and approved for your vehicle, and are covered by warranty. Non-Honda accessories are usually designed for universal applications. Although aftermarket accessories may fit on your vehicle, they may not meet factory specifications, and could adversely affect your vehicle's handling and stability. (See "Modifications" on the page 127 for additional information.) Before Driving Improper accessories or modifications can affect your vehicle's handling, stability and performance, and cause a crash in which you can be hurt or killed. Follow all instructions in this owner's manual regarding accessories and modifications. When properly installed, car phones, alarms, two-way radios, and low- powered audio systems should not interfere with your vehicle's computer-controlled systems, such as the SRS and anti-lock brake system. However, if electronic accessories are improperly installed, or exceed your vehicle's electrical system capacity, they can interfere with the operation of your vehicle, or even cause the airbags to deploy. Before installing any accessory: Make sure the accessory does not obscure any lights, or interfere with proper vehicle operation or performance. Be sure electronic accessories do not overload electrical circuits (see page 248 ). Have the installer contact your Honda dealer for assistance before installing any electronic accessory. If possible, have your dealer inspect the final installation. Main MenuTable of ContentsstAccessories and Modifications Modifications Do not remove any original equipment or modify your vehicle in any way that would alter its design or operation. This could make your vehicle unsafe and illegal to drive. In addition, any modifications that decrease ground clearance increase the chance of undercarriage parts striking a curb, speed bump, or other raised object, which could cause your airbags to deploy. For example, do not make any modifications that would change the ride height of your vehicle, or install wheels and tires with a different overall diameter. Do not modify your steering wheel or any other part of your Supplemental Restraint System. Modifications could make the system ineffective. Additional Safety Precaution Do not attach or place objects on the airbag covers. Any object attached to or placed on the covers marked "SRS, in the center of the steering wheel and on top of the dashboard, could interfere with the proper operation of the airbags. Or, if the airbags inflate, the objects could be propelled inside the vehicle and hurt someone. Such modifications can adversely affect handling, and interfere with the operation of the vehicle's anti- lock brakes and other systems. Before Driving Main MenuTable of ContentsstCarrying Cargo CONSOLE COMPARTMENT FRONT DOOR POCKET Your vehicle has several convenient storage areas so you can stow cargo safely. The glove box, and the pockets in the front doors and seat-back, are designed for small, lightweight items. The trunk is intended for larger, heavier items. In addition, the back seat can be folded down to allow you to carry more cargo or longer items. However, carrying too much cargo, or improperly storing it, can affect your vehicle's handling, stability and operation and make it unsafe. Before carrying any type of cargo, be sure to read the following pages. TRUNK SEAT-BACK POCKET GLOVE BOX Before Driving Main MenuTable of ContentsstOverloading or improper loading can affect handling and stability and cause a crash in which you can be hurt or killed. Follow all load limits and other loading guidelines in this manual. Load Limit The maximum load for your vehicle is 700 1b (325kg). This figure includes the total weight of all occupants, cargo, accessories, and the tongue weight if you are towing a trailer. To figure out how much cargo you can carry: Add up the weight of all occupants. If you are towing a trailer, add the tongue weight to the number above. Subtract the total from 700 Ib (325 kg). The final number is the total weight of cargo you can carry. Carrying Cargo Carrying Items in the Passenger Compartment Store or secure all items that could be thrown around and hurt someone during a crash. Do not put any items on top of the rear shelf. They can block your view and be thrown around the vehicle during a crash. Be sure items placed on the floor behind the front seats cannot roll under the seats and interfere with the driver's ability to operate the pedals, or with the proper operation of the seats. Keep the glove box closed while driving. If the lid is open, a passenger could injure their knees during a crash or sudden stop. Before Driving Main MenuTable of ContentsstIf you can carry any items on a roof rack, be sure the total weight of the rack and the items does not exceed the maximum allowable weight. Please contact your Honda dealer for further information. Carrying Cargo Carrying Cargo in the Trunk or on a Roof Rack Distribute cargo evenly on the floor of the trunk, placing the heaviest items on the bottom and as far forward as possible. If you fold down the back seat, tie down items that could be thrown about the vehicle during a crash or sudden stop. If you carry large items that prevent you from closing the trunk, exhaust gas can enter the passenger area. To avoid the possibility of carbon monoxide poisoning, follow the instructions on page 47. Before Driving Main MenuTable of ContentsstThis section gives you tips on starting the engine under various conditions, and how to operate the 5-speed manual and automatic transmissions. It also includes important information on parking your vehicle, the braking system, and facts you need if you are plan- ning to tow a trailer. Driving Preparing to Drive......................... 132 Starting the Engine........................ 133 Starting in Cold Weather at High Altitude ..................... 133 5-speed Manual Transmission..... 134 Recommended Shift Points...... 135 Maximum Allowable Speeds.... 135 Automatic Transmission............... 136 Shift Lever Position Indicator.. 136 Shift Lever Positions................. 137 Maximum Allowable Speeds.... 142 Shift Lock Release..................... 143 Parking............................................ 144 The Braking System...................... 145 Brake Wear Indicators.............. 145 Brake System Design................ 146 Anti-lock Brakes........................ 146 Important Safety Reminders.......................... 147 ABS Indicator......................... 148 Active Torque Transfer System ..149 Driving in Bad Weather................ 150 Towing a Trailer............................ 152 Driving Main Menust10. Turn the ignition switch ON (II). Check the indicator lights in the instrument panel. 11. Start the engine (see page 133). 12. Check the gauges and indicator lights in the instrument panel (see page 51). 5. Check the adjustment of the seat (see page 75). 6. Check the adjustment of the inside and outside mirrors (see page 83). 7. Check the adjustment of the steering wheel (see page 64). 8. Make sure the doors are securely closed and locked. 9. Fasten your seat belt. Check that your passengers have fastened their seat belts (see page 14). Preparing to Drive You should do the following checks and adjustments every day before you drive your vehicle. 1. Make sure all windows, mirrors, and outside lights are clean and unobstructed. Remove frost, snow, or ice. 2. Check that the hood and trunk are fully closed. 3. Visually check the tires. If a tire looks low, use a gauge to check its pressure. 4. Check that any items you may be carrying with you inside are stored properly or fastened down securely. Driving Main MenuTable of Contentsst1. Apply the parking brake. 2. In cold weather, turn off all electrical accessories to reduce the drain on the battery. 3. Manual Transmission: Push the clutch pedal down all the way. START (III) does not function unless the clutch pedal is depressed. Automatic Transmission: Make sure the shift lever is in Park. Press on the brake pedal. 4. Without touching the accelerator pedal, turn the ignition key to the START (III) position. If the engine does not start right away, do not hold the key in START (III) for more than 15 seconds at a time. Pause for at least 10 seconds before trying again. 5. If the engine does not start within 15 seconds, or starts but stalls right away, repeat step 4 with the accelerator pedal pressed half-way down. If the engine starts, release pressure on the accelerator pedal so the engine does not race. 6. If the engine still does not start, press the accelerator pedal all the way down and hold it there while starting in order to clear flooding. As before, keep the ignition key in the START (III) position for no more than 15 seconds. Return to step 5 if the engine does not start. If it starts, lift your foot off the accelerator pedal so the engine does not race. Starting in Cold Weather at High Altitude (Above 8,000 feet/ 2,400 meters) An engine is harder to start in cold weather. The thinner air found at high altitude above 8,000 feet (2,400 Starting the Engine meters) adds to the problem. Use the following procedure: 1. Turn off all electrical accessories to reduce the drain on the battery. 2. Push the accelerator pedal half- way to the floor and hold it there while starting the engine. Do not hold the ignition key in START (III) for more than 15 seconds. When the engine starts, release the accelerator pedal gradually as the engine speeds up and smooths out. 3. If the engine fails to start in step 2, push the accelerator pedal to the floor and hold it there while you try to start the engine for no more than 15 seconds. If the engine does not start, return to step 2. Driving Main MenuTable of Contentsst5-speed Manual Transmission Rapid slowing or speeding-up can cause loss of control on slippery surfaces. If you crash, you can be injured. Use extra care when driving on slippery surfaces. Come to a full stop before you shift into Reverse. You can damage the transmission by trying to shift into Reverse with the vehicle moving. Push down the clutch pedal, and pause for a few seconds before shifting into Reverse, or shift into one of the forward gears for a moment. This stops the gears so they won't "grind." When slowing down, you can get extra braking from the engine by shifting to a lower gear. This extra braking can help you maintain a safe speed and prevent your brakes from overheating while going down a steep hill. Before downshifting, make sure engine speed will not go into the tachometer's red zone in the lower gear. Refer to the Maximum Allowable Speeds chart. The manual transmission is syn- chronized in all forward gears for smooth operation. It has a lockout so you cannot shift directly from Fifth to Reverse. When shifting up or down, make sure you push the clutch pedal down all the way, shift to the next gear, and let the pedal up gradually. When you are not shifting, do not rest your foot on the clutch pedal. This can cause your clutch to wear out faster. Driving Main MenuTable of Contentsst5-speed Manual Transmission Recommended Shift Points Drive in the highest gear that lets the engine run and accelerate smoothly. This will give you the best fuel economy and effective emis- sions control. The following shift points are recommended: Maximum Allowable Speeds The speeds in this table are the maximum allowable speeds in each gear. If you exceed these speeds, the engine speed will enter into the tachometer's red zone. If this occurs, you may feel the engine cut in and out. This is caused by a limiter in the engine's computer controls. The engine will run normally when you reduce the RPM below the red zone. Before downshifting, make sure the vehicle will not exceed the maximum allowable speed in the chart in the lower gear to avoid engine damage. Driving Main MenuTable of ContentsstAutomatic Transmission Your Honda's transmission has four forward speeds, and is electronically controlled for smoother shifting. It also has a "lock-up" torque converter for better fuel economy. You may feel what seems like another shift when the converter locks. Shift Lever Position Indicator The "D4" indicator comes on for a few seconds when you turn the ignition switch ON (II). If it flashes while driving (in any shift position), it indicates a possible problem in the transmission. Avoid rapid acceler- ation and have the transmission checked by an authorized Honda dealer as soon as possible. This indicator in the tachometer shows which position the shift lever is in. The illuminated number next to the "D4" indicator shows you the gear you have selected in the Sequential SportShift mode. Driving Main MenuTable of ContentsstShift Lever Positions To select the Sequential SportShift mode, slide the shift lever toward the left from the "D4" position. In this mode the shift lever allows you to shift up and down manually. SHIFT LEVER SEQUENTIAL SPORTSHIFT MODE POSITION The shift lever has eight positions. It must be in Park or Neutral to start the engine. When you are stopped in D4, D3, 2, 1, N, R, or the Sequential SportShift mode, press firmly on the brake pedal and keep your foot off the accelerator pedal. Automatic Transmission Whenever you move the shift lever, slide it along the guide on the console. You cannot shift out of Park with the brake pedal depressed when the ignition switch is in LOCK (0) or ACCESSORY (I). CONTINUED Driving Main MenuTable of ContentsstAutomatic Transmission Park (P) — This position mechani- cally locks the transmission. Use Park whenever you are turning off or starting the engine. To shift out of Park, you must press on the brake pedal and have your foot off the accelerator pedal. Move the shift lever to the right to shift out of the Park position. If you have done all of the above and still cannot move the lever out of Park, see Shift Lock Release on page 143. Driving Reverse (R) — To shift to Reverse from Park, see the explanation under Park. To shift to Reverse from Neutral, come to a complete stop and then shift. Your car has a reverse lockout so you cannot accidentally shift to Reverse from Neutral or any other driving position when the vehicle speed exceeds 7 — 9 mph (12 — 14 km/h). If you cannot shift to Reverse when the car is stopped, press the brake pedal and slowly shift to Neutral then to Reverse. If there is a problem in the reverse lockout system, or your vehicle's battery is disconnected or goes dead, you cannot shift to Reverse. In this case, use the procedure of Shift Lock Release (see page 143). To avoid transmission damage, come to a complete stop before shifting into Park. The shift lever must be in Park before you can remove the key from the ignition switch. Main MenuTable of ContentsstNeutral (N) — Use Neutral if you need to restart a stalled engine, or if it is necessary to stop briefly with the engine idling. Shift to Park posi- tion if you need to leave the vehicle for any reason. Press on the brake pe- dal when you are moving the shift lever from Neutral to another gear. Drive (D4) — Use this position for your normal driving. The transmis- sion automatically selects a suitable gear for your speed and acceleration. You may notice the transmission shifting up at higher speeds when the engine is cold. This helps the engine warm up faster. Automatic Transmission Sequential SportShift Mode With the shift lever in "D4" position, you can select the Sequential SportShift mode to shift gears; much like a manual transmission, but without a clutch pedal. the gear you selected while in the sequential sportshift mode. If you select the Sequential SportShift while the vehicle is stopped, the transmission automatically selects first gear and the display shows / 1 /. To enter the Sequential SportShift mode, slide the shift lever further to the left. To return to "D4", slide the shift lever to the right. In the Sequential SportShift mode, each time you push forward on the shift lever, the transmission shifts to a higher gear. Pull back on the lever to downshift. The number of the gear selected is displayed next to the "D4" indicator (see page 136). If you slide the shift lever from "D4" to the Sequential SportShift mode, the display shows the selected gear. If you selected "4", you will see / 4/ next to "D4" in the display. The Shift Lever Position Indicator will show Upshift Downshift CONTINUED Driving Main MenuTable of ContentsstAutomatic Transmission When you accelerate away from a stop, the transmission will be in first gear. The transmission will not automatically upshift. Watch the tachometer and upshift manually before the engine reaches redline. Driving The transmission remains in the selected gear (4, 3, 2, or 1). There is no automatic downshift when you push the accelerator pedal to the floor. The transmission may automatically downshift from fourth gear to third gear under the following conditions: Downshifting gives you more power when climbing or provides engine braking when going down a steep hill. The transmission will also shift automatically as the vehicle comes to a complete stop. It will downshift to first gear when the vehicle speed is under 6 mph (10 km/h). The vehicle speeds drops below 20 mph (32km/h). If you drive uphill between 20 — 31mph(32 — 50km/h). If you press the brake pedal as you drive downhill. If you try to manually downshift at a speed that would cause the engine to exceed the redline in a lower gear, the transmission will not downshift. If you try to downshift from fourth gear to third gear, the gear indicator will flash / 3/ several times, then return to / 4 /; if you try to downshift from third gear to second gear, the gear indicator will flash / 2/ several times, then return to third gear. Main MenuTable of ContentsstThe table shows the speed ranges for upshifting and downshifting. If the vehicle speeds slows to below the redline of the selected lower gear position while the indicator is flashing, the transmission downshifts and the display shows the selected lower gear. If the transmission temperature is below 14°F(— 10°C), you may not be able to use the Sequential SportShift mode. Automatic Transmission Drive (D3) — This position is similar to D4, except only the first three gears are selected. Use D3 when towing a trailer in hilly terrain, or to provide engine braking when going down a steep hill. D3 can also keep the transmission from cycling between third and fourth gears in stop-and-go driving. For faster acceleration when in D3 or D4, you can get the transmission to automatically downshift by pushing the accelerator pedal to the floor. The transmission will shift down one or two gears, depending on your speed. CONTINUED Driving Main MenuTable of ContentsstAutomatic Transmission Second (2) — This position locks the transmission in second gear. It does not downshift to first gear when you come to a stop. Second gives you more power when climbing, and increased engine braking when going down steep hills. Use second gear when starting out on a slippery surface or in deep snow. It will help reduce wheelspin. First (1) With the lever in this position, the transmission locks in First gear. If you shift into First position when the vehicle speed exceeds 31 mph (50 km/h), the transmission shifts into Second gear first to avoid the application of the sudden engine brake. Maximum Allowable Speeds The speeds in this table are the maximum allowable speeds in each position. If you exceed these speeds, the engine speed will enter into the tachometer's red zone. If this occurs, you will feel the engine cut in and out. This is caused by a limiter in the engine's computer controls. The engine will run normally when you reduce the RPM below the red zone. Before downshifting, make sure the vehicle will not exceed the maximum allowable speed in the chart in the lower gear to avoid engine damage. Driving Main MenuTable of ContentsstShift Lock Release This allows you to move the shift lever out of Park if the normal method of pushing on the brake pedal does not work. This procedure also releases the Reverse Lockout. 1. Set the Parking brake. 2. Make sure the key is in the ignition switch OFF (0) position. To release the Reverse Lockout, make sure the key is in the ACCESSORY (I) position. 3. Put a cloth on the edge of the shift lock release slot cover next to the shift lever. Use a small flat-tipped screwdriver or small metal plate (neither are included in the tool kit) to remove the cover. Carefully pry off the edge of the cover. Automatic Transmission SHIFT LOCK RELEASE SLOT COVER 4. Insert a screwdriver in the shift lock release slot. 5. Push down on the screwdriver and move the shift lever out of Park to Neutral. To release the Reverse Lockout, move the shift lever from Neutral to Reverse, then Park. 6. Remove the screwdriver from the shift lock release slot, then install a new cover. Depress the brake pedal and restart the engine. If you need to use the Shift Lock Release, it means your vehicle is developing a problem. Have the vehicle checked by your Honda dealer. Driving Main MenuTable of ContentsstIf the vehicle is facing uphill, turn the front wheels away from the curb. If you have a manual transmission, put it in first gear. If the vehicle is facing downhill, turn the front wheels toward the curb. If you have a manual transmission, put it in reverse gear. Make sure the parking brake is fully released before driving away. Driving with the parking brake partially set can overheat or damage the rear brakes. Parking Tips Make sure the moonroof and the windows are closed. Turn off the lights. Place any packages, valuables, etc., in the trunk or take them with you. Lock the doors. Never park over dry leaves, tall grass, or other flammable materials. The three way catalytic converter gets very hot, and could cause these materials to catch on fire. Parking Always use the parking brake when you park your vehicle. The indicator on the instrument panel shows that the parking brake is not fully released; it does not indicate that the parking brake is firmly set. Make sure the parking brake is set firmly or your vehicle may roll if it is parked on an incline. If your vehicle has an automatic transmission, set the parking brake before you put the transmission in Park. This keeps the vehicle from moving and putting pressure on the parking mechanism in the transmission — making it easier to move the shift lever out of Park when you want to drive away. Driving Main MenuTable of ContentsstThe Braking System Your Honda is equipped with disc brakes at all four wheels. A power assist helps reduce the effort needed on the brake pedal. The ABS helps you retain steering control when braking very hard. Put your foot on the brake pedal only when you intend to brake. Resting your foot on the pedal keeps the brakes applied lightly, causing them to build up heat. Heat build-up can reduce how well your brakes work. It also keeps your brake lights on all the time, confusing drivers behind you. Constant application of the brakes when going down a long hill builds up heat and reduces their effective- ness. Use the engine to assist the brakes by downshifting to a lower gear and taking your foot off the accelerator pedal. Check your brakes after driving through deep water. Apply the brakes moderately to see if they feel normal. If not, apply them gently and frequently until they do. Since a longer distance is needed to stop with wet brakes, be extra cautious and alert in your driving. Brake Wear Indicators All four brakes have audible brake wear indicators. When the brake pads need replacing, you will hear a distinctive metallic "screeching" sound when you apply the brakes. If you do not have the brake pads replaced, they will begin screeching all the time. Your brakes may sometimes squeal or squeak when you apply them lightly. Do not confuse this with the brake wear indicators. They make a very audible "screeching." Driving Main MenuTable of ContentsstThe Braking System Brake System Design The hydraulic system that operates the brakes has two separate circuits. Each circuit works diagonally across the vehicle (the left-front brake is connected with the right-rear brake, etc.). If one circuit should develop a problem, you will still have braking at two wheels. Front Driving Anti-lock Brakes Your vehicle has an Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) as standard equipment. ABS helps to prevent the wheels from locking up and skidding during hard braking, allowing you to retain steering control. When the front tires skid, you lose steering control; the vehicle continues straight ahead even though you turn the steering wheel. The ABS helps to prevent lock-up and helps you retain steering control by pumping the brakes rapidly; much faster than a person can do it. You should never pump the brake pedal, this defeats the purpose of the ABS. Let the ABS work for you by always keeping firm, steady pressure on the brake pedal as you steer away from the hazard. This is sometimes referred to as "stomp and steer." You will feel a pulsation in the brake pedal when the ABS activates, and you may hear some noise. This is normal, it is the ABS rapidly pumping the brakes. Activation varies with the amount of traction your tires have. On dry pavement, you will need to press on the brake pedal very hard before you activate the ABS. However, you may feel the ABS activate immediately if you are trying to stop on snow or ice. Main MenuTable of ContentsstThe Braking System Important Safety Reminders ABS does not reduce the time or distance it takes to stop the vehicle, it only helps with steering control during braking. You should always maintain a safe following distance from other vehicles. ABS will not prevent a skid that results from changing direction abruptly, such as trying to take a corner too fast or making a sudden lane change. Always drive at a safe, prudent speed for the road and weather conditions. A vehicle with ABS may require a longer distance to stop on loose or uneven surfaces, such as gravel or snow, than a vehicle without anti- lock. Slow down and allow a greater distance between vehicles under those conditions. ABS cannot prevent a loss of stability. Always steer moderately when you are braking hard. Severe or sharp steering wheel movement can still cause your vehicle to veer into oncoming traffic or off the road. CONTINUED Driving Main MenuTable of ContentsstIf anything goes wrong, the ABS indicator on the instrument panel comes on (see page 54). This means the anti-lock function of the braking system has shut down. The brakes still work like a conventional system without anti-lock, providing normal stopping ability. You should have the dealer inspect your vehicle as soon as possible. The Braking System ABS Indicator ABS INDICATOR* * U.S. indicator shown The ABS is self-checking. It also checks itself whenever you use the brakes. Driving Main MenuTable of ContentsstType SH only Your Honda is equipped with an Active Torque Transfer System (ATTS). Under certain driving conditions, the ATTS enhances the vehicle's cornering performance by transferring some torque between the inside and outside front wheels during a turn. Based on steering wheel turn angle, lateral acceleration, and engine power, the ATTS regulates the driving force to each drive wheel through an electronically-controlled hydraulic system and two sets of clutches and gears. Active Torque Transfer System Important Safety Information The ATTS cannot prevent skidding if you enter a corner too fast. It has almost no effect on braking and vehicle speed. It is still your responsibility to drive at reasonable speeds and to leave a sufficient margin of safety. ATTS Indicator ATTS INDICATOR The Active Torque Transfer System (ATTS) is self-checking. If a problem is detected in the system, the ATTS indicator on the instrument panel comes on. If this happens, take the vehicle to your dealer to have it checked. With the indicator on, your vehicle will corner normally, but you will not have active torque transfer. Driving Main MenuTable of ContentsstDriving in Bad Weather Rain, fog, and snow conditions re- quire a different driving technique because of reduced traction and visibility. Keep your vehicle well- maintained and exercise greater caution when you need to drive in bad weather. The cruise control should not be used in these condi- tions. Driving Visibility — Being able to see clearly in all directions and being visible to other drivers are important in all weather conditions. This is more difficult in bad weather. To be seen more clearly during daylight hours, turn on your headlights. Inspect your windshield wipers and washers frequently. Keep the wind- shield washer reservoir full of the proper fluid. Have the windshield wiper blades replaced if they start to streak the windshield or leave parts unwiped. Use the defrosters and air conditioning to keep the windows from fogging up on the inside (see page 98). Driving Technique — Always drive slower than you would in dry weather. It takes your vehicle longer to react, even in conditions that may seem just barely damp. Apply smooth, even pressure to all the controls. Abrupt steering wheel movements or sudden, hard appli- cation of the brakes can cause loss of control in wet weather. Be extra cautious for the first few miles (kilometers) of driving while you adjust to the change in driving conditions. This is especially true in snow. A person can forget some snow-driving techniques during the summer months. Practice is needed to relearn those skills. Exercise extra caution when driving in rain after a long dry spell. After months of dry weather, the first rains bring oil to the surface of the roadway, making it slippery. Main MenuTable of ContentsstTraction — Check your tires frequently for wear and proper pressure. Both are important in preventing "hydroplaning" (loss of traction on a wet surface). In the winter, mount snow tires on all four wheels for the best handling. Watch road conditions carefully, they can change from moment to moment. Wet leaves can be as slip- pery as ice. "Clear" roads can have patches of ice. Driving conditions can be very hazardous when the outside temperature is near freezing. The road surface can become covered with areas of water puddles mixed with areas of ice, so your traction can change without warning. Be careful when downshifting. If traction is low, you can lock up the drive wheels for a moment and cause a skid. Be very cautious when passing, or being passed by other vehicles. The spray from large vehicles reduces your visibility, and the wind buffeting can cause you to lose control. Driving in Bad Weather Driving Main MenuTable of ContentsstTowing a Trailer Your Honda is designed primarily to carry passengers and their cargo. You can use it to tow a trailer if you carefully observe some general rules. Driving The total weight of the trailer and everything loaded in it must not exceed 1,000 Ibs (450 kg). The "tongue load" should never exceed 110 Ibs (50 kg). This is the amount of weight the trailer puts on the hitch when it is fully-loaded. As a rule of thumb, the tongue load should be 10 percent of the total trailer package. For example, if the trailer and its load weigh 500 Ibs (225 kg), the tongue load should be 50 Ibs (22.5 kg). Adjust the trailer's cargo to change the tongue load. Start by putting approximately 60 percent of the cargo toward the front and 40 percent toward the rear. Never load the trailer so the back is heavier than the front. This takes weight off your vehicle's rear axle and reduces traction. The combined weight of the vehicle, all passengers and their luggage, and tongue load must not exceed the Gross Vehicle Weight Rating. The GVWR is printed on the Certification label attached to the driver's doorjamb (see page 252). The combined weight of the vehicle, all passengers and their luggage, and tongue load also must not exceed the Gross Axle Weight Rating. The GAWR is also shown on the Certification label. It tells you the maximum load for the front and rear axles. It is possible that your towing package does not exceed the GVWR but does exceed the GAWR. Improper trailer loading, and/or too much luggage in the trunk can overload the rear axle. Redistribute the load and check the axle weights again. Main MenuTable of ContentsstImproperly loading your vehicle and trailer can seriously affect its steering and braking performance, causing a crash in which you can be seriously injured. Check the loading of your vehicle and trailer carefully before starting to drive. The best way to confirm that your total towing package is within these specifications is to get it weighed. Load the vehicle and trailer as you normally would while towing, and take them to a public scale. Have them check the total weight and the weight at each axle, then compare the weights to the specifications. Towing a Trailer Trailer Hitches The trailer hitch must be the proper size and construction for your vehicle and the trailer you intend to tow. Consult with an expert before you purchase a trailer hitch, and have it installed by a qualified mechanic. The hitch should bolt to the underbody of the vehicle, and distribute the load over a wide area. Never use a hitch that mounts only to the rear bumper. The bumper is not designed to handle that type of load. NOTICE A trailer hitch that is not adequate for the size of the trailer, or a hitch that is improperly installed, can cause damage to the underside of your vehicle. Driving Main MenuTable of ContentsstTowing a Trailer Mirrors Many states and provinces have laws requiring special outside mirrors when you are towing a trailer. Check the laws in your area. You may want to install mirrors, even if they are not required. Hook up the trailer and see how much it obscures your ability to see behind you with the standard mirrors. If you cannot see directly behind you, or have a large blind spot next to the trailer or the vehicle, you should install mirrors intended for towing. Connecting the Trailer Most trailers that have a gross weight of 1,000 Ibs (450 kg) do not have their own braking system. If you are thinking of getting a trailer that does have brakes, make sure they are electrically-operated. There are no provisions in your vehicle to tap into its hydraulic braking system. Any attempt to attach the trailer's brakes to your vehicle's hydraulic system, no matter how successful it may seem, will lower braking effectiveness and create a potential hazard. Always use a safety chain when towing a trailer. Connect the safety chain securely at both ends. Make sure the chain crosses under the tongue so it will catch the trailer if it becomes unhitched. Leave enough slack in the chain so it can't bind in a sharp turn. Do not let it drag on the ground. Driving Main MenuTable of ContentsstGROUND (BLACK) BACK-UP LIGHT (GREEN/BLACK) LEFT TURN SIGNAL (GREEN/BLUE) RIGHT TURN SIGNAL (GREEN/YELLOW) BRAKE LIGHT (WHITE/BLACK) TAILLIGHT (RED/BLACK) Your vehicle has a trailer lighting connector in the trunk by the left tail- light. To use the connector, undo the fastener on the left side of the trunk lining. Refer to the drawing above for the wiring color code and pur- pose of each connector pin. Since the lighting and wiring can be different for various brands of trailers, have a technician who is familiar with your trailer modify its lighting plug. A converter may be required between the vehicle and trailer for the lights to work correctly. Towing a Trailer Before Starting Out As you are preparing to tow your trailer, do the following: Measure the trailer's tongue load. You can do this with a bathroom scale. Verify that the hitch and safety chain are securely fastened. Check the condition and air pressure of all tires on the trailer and your vehicle. Low tire pressure can seriously affect the handling. Also check the spare tire. With everything loaded and the trailer connected, check that the rear of the vehicle is not sagging. If so, redistribute the load in the vehicle. Check that all lights on the vehicle and trailer are working properly. Driving Main MenuTable of ContentsstTowing a Trailer Towing Safety Your vehicle will not stop as quickly with a trailer in tow. Leave extra distance between your vehicle and other vehicles. Avoid braking or turning suddenly. This could cause the trailer to jackknife or possibly turn over. The vehicle/trailer combination is more affected by crosswinds and buffeting. When being passed by a large vehicle, keep a constant speed and steer straight ahead. If there is too much wind buffeting, slow down to get out of the other vehicle's air turbulence. Keep in mind that your total vehicle is now much longer. Leave more room when making turns. The trailer tracks a smaller arc than the vehicle and can hit or run over something that the vehicle misses. When passing another vehicle, make sure the trailer is clear before changing lanes. Towing a trailer puts an extra load on your vehicle. You should have your vehicle serviced according to the "Maintenance Schedule under severe driving conditions" on page 166. This extra load is magnified when you are driving in hilly terrain. Watch the temperature gauge closely when climbing hills. If it gets near the hot area, turn off the air conditioning (if it is on). If this does not reduce the heat, it may be necessary to pull to the side of the road and wait for the engine to cool. If the automatic transmission shifts frequently between 3rd and 4th gears, put it in D3. This will help prevent the transmission from overheating. Help keep the brakes from overheating by shifting to a lower gear when going downhill. If you have to stop while going uphill, do not hold the vehicle in place by pressing on the accelerator. This can cause the automatic transmission to overheat. Use the parking brake or footbrake. Driving Main MenuTable of ContentsstWhen towing a trailer in the Sequential SportShift mode, select Third, Second, or First gear; depending on the vehicle speeds and road condition. Do not use Fourth gear. The recommended speed range for each gear position is shown in the table. When parking your vehicle and trailer, especially on a hill, be sure to follow all the normal precautions. Turn your front wheels into the curb, set the parking brake firmly, and put the transmission in 1st or Reverse (manual) or Park (automatic). In addition, place wheel chocks at each of the trailer's tires. Backing up with a trailer is difficult and takes practice. Drive slowly, make small movements with the steering wheel, and have someone stand outside to guide you. Grip the steering wheel on the bottom (rather than the usual position near the top). Move your hand to the left to get the trailer to move to the left, and right to move the trailer right. Towing a Trailer Driving Main MenuTable of ContentsstThis section explains why it is important to keep your vehicle well maintained and to follow basic maintenance safety precautions. This section also includes Maintenance Schedules for normal driving and severe driving conditions, a Maintenance Record, and instruc- tions for simple maintenance tasks you may want to take care of yourself. If you have the skills and tools to per- form more complex maintenance tasks on your Honda, you may want to purchase the Service Manual. See page 271 for information on how to obtain a copy, or see your Honda dealer. Maintenance Safety....................... 160 Important Safety Precautions ..161 Maintenance Schedule.................. 162 Required Maintenance Record.... 169 Owner Maintenance Checks........ 171 Fluid Locations............................... 172 Engine Oil.......................................173 Adding Oil................................... 173 Recommended Oil..................... 173 Synthetic Oil............................... 174 Additives..................................... 174 Changing the Oil and Filter...... 175 Cooling System.............................. 177 Adding Engine Coolant............. 177 Replacing Engine Coolant........ 179 Windshield Washers..................... 182 Transmission Fluid........................ 183 Automatic Transmission.......................... 183 5-speed Manual Transmission.......................... 184 Brake and Clutch Fluid................. 185 Brake System............................. 185 Clutch System............................ 186 Power Steering............................... 186 Air Cleaner Element...................... 187 Maintenance Spark Plugs..................................... 188 Replacement............................... 188 Specifications............................. 190 Battery............................................ 190 Wiper Blades.................................. 193 Air Conditioning System............... 195 Drive Belts...................................... 196 Timing Belt..................................... 196 Tires................................................ 197 Inflation....................................... 197 Inspection................................... 198 Maintenance............................... 199 Tire Rotation.............................. 200 Replacing Tires and Wheels .... 200 Wheels and Tires....................... 201 Winter Driving...........................201 Snow Tires.............................. 202 Tire Chains............................. 202 Lights.............................................. 203 Headlight Aimimg..................... 205 Replacing Bulbs......................... 206 Storing Your Vehicle..................... 217 Maintenance Main MenustThis section includes instructions for simple maintenance tasks, such as checking and adding oil. Any service items not detailed in this section should be performed by a Honda technician or other qualified mechanic. Some of the most important safety precautions are given here. However, we cannot warn you of every conceivable hazard that can arise in performing maintenance. Only you can decide whether or not you should perform a given task. Failure to properly follow maintenance instructions and precautions can cause you to be seriously hurt or killed. Always follow the procedures and precautions in this owner's manual. Maintenance Safety Regularly maintaining your vehicle is the best way to protect your investment. Proper maintenance is essential to your safety and the safety of your passengers. It will also reward you with more economical, trouble-free driving and help reduce air pollution. Improperly maintaining this vehicle or failing to correct a problem before driving can cause a crash in which you can be seriously hurt or killed. Always follow the inspection and maintenance recommendations and schedules in this owner's manual. Maintenance Main MenuTable of ContentsstImportant Safety Precautions Before you begin any maintenance, make sure your vehicle is parked on level ground and that the parking brake is set. Also, be sure the engine is off. This will help to eliminate several potential hazards: Carbon monoxide poisoning from engine exhaust. Be sure there is adequate ventilation whenever you operate the engine. Burns from hot parts. Let the engine and exhaust system cool before touching any parts. Injury from moving parts. Do not run the engine unless in- structed to do so. Read the instructions before you begin, and make sure you have the tools and skills required. To reduce the possibility of fire or explosion, be careful when working around gasoline or batteries. Use a nonflammable solvent, not gasoline, to clean parts. Keep cigarettes, sparks, and flames away from the battery and all fuel-related parts. You should wear eye protection and protective clothing when working near the battery or when using compressed air. Maintenance Safety Maintenance Main MenuTable of ContentsstWhich Schedule to Follow: Service your vehicle according to the time and mileage periods on one of the Maintenance Schedules on the following pages. Select the schedule for "Severe Conditions" if most of your driving is done under one or more of the conditions listed on that page. Otherwise, follow the schedule for "Normal Conditions." Maintenance Schedule The Maintenance Schedule specifies how often you should have your vehicle serviced and what things need attention. It is essential that you have your vehicle serviced as scheduled to retain its high level of safety, dependability, and emissions control performance. The services and time or distance intervals shown in the maintenance schedule assume you will use your vehicle as normal transportation for passengers and their possessions. You should also follow these recommendations: Avoid exceeding your vehicle's load limit. This puts excess stress on the engine, brakes, and many other parts of your vehicle. The load limit is shown on the label on the driver's doorjamb. Operate your vehicle on reasonable roads within the legal speed limit. Drive your vehicle regularly over a distance of several miles (kilometers). Always use unleaded gasoline with the proper octane rating (see page 120). Maintenance Main MenuTable of ContentsstYour authorized Honda dealer knows your vehicle best and can provide competent, efficient service. However, service at a dealer is not mandatory to keep your warranties in effect. Maintenance may be done by any qualified service facility or person who is skilled in this type of automotive service. Keep all the receipts as proof of completion, and have the person who does the work fill out the Maintenance Record. Check your warranty booklet for more information. We recommend the use of Genuine Honda parts and fluids whenever you have maintenance done. These are manufactured to the same high- quality standards as the original components, so you can be confident of their performance and durability. U.S. Vehicles: Maintenance, replacement or repair of emission control devices and systems may be done by any automotive repair establishment or individual using parts that are "certified" to EPA standards. Maintenance Schedule According to state and federal regulations, failure to perform maintenance on the items marked with # will not void your emissions warranties. However, Honda recommends that all maintenance services be performed at the recommended time or mileage period to ensure long-term reliability. Maintenance Main MenuTable of ContentsstMaintenance Schedule (Normal Conditions) Follow the Normal Conditions Maintenance Schedule if the severe driving conditions specified in the Severe Conditions Maintenance Schedule do not apply. NOTE: If you only OCCASIONALLY drive under a "severe" condition, you should follow the Normal Conditions Maintenance Schedule. # : See maintenance and emissions warranty information, last column, page 163 . Maintenance Main MenuTable of ContentsstMaintenance Schedule for Normal Conditions (listed by distance/time) Service at the indicated distance or time, whichever comes first. Do the items in A, B, C as required for each distance/time interval. Follow this schedule if the severe driving conditions described in the Severe Conditions Schedule on the next page do not apply. Canadian owners: Follow the schedule for Severe Conditions. page 200). # : See maintenance and emissions warranty information, last column, page 163. Maintenanc e Main MenuTable of ContentsstMaintenance Schedule (Severe Conditions) # : See maintenance and emissions warranty information, last column, page 163 . Maintenance Follow the Severe Maintenance Schedule if you drive your vehicle MAINLY under one or more of the following condi- tions: Driving less than 5 miles (8 km) per trip or, in freezing temperatures, driving less than 10 miles (16 km) per trip. Driving in extremely hot [over90°F (32°C)] conditions. Extensive idling or long periods of stop-and-go driving. Trailer towing, driving with a roof rack carrier, or driving in mountainous conditions. Driving on muddy, dusty, or de-iced roads. * 1: Refer to page 196 for replacement information under special driving conditions. For Canadian Owners Follow the Maintenance Schedule for Severe Conditions. Main MenuTable of ContentsstMaintenance Schedule for Severe Conditions (listed by distance/time) Use this schedule if your vehicle is MAINLY driven in any of the following Severe Conditions, or normally driven in Canada; otherwise use the Normal Schedule. Service at the indicated distance or time, whichever comes first. Do the items in A, B, C as required for each distance/time. Severe Conditions: • Driving less than 5 mi (8 km) per trip or, in freezing temperatures, driving less than 10 mi (16 km) per trip. • Driving in extremely hot (over 90°F/32°C) conditions. • Extensive idling or long periods of stop-and-go driving. • Trailer towing, driving with a roof rack carrier, or driving in mountainous conditions. • Driving on muddy, dusty, or de-iced roads. page 200). #: See maintenance and emissions warranty information, last column, page 163. CONTINUED Maintenance Main MenuTable of ContentsstMaintenance Schedule for Severe Conditions (listed by distance/time) * 1 : See Timing Belt on page 196 to determine need for replacement. Maintenance Main MenuTable of ContentsstRequired Maintenance Record (for Normal and Severe Schedules) You or the servcing dealer can record all completed maintenance here, whether you follow the schedule for normal conditions (page 164 ) or severe conditions (page 166). Keep the receipts for all work done on your vehicle. CONTINUED Maintenance Main MenuTable of ContentsstRequired Maintenance Record (for Normal and Severe Schedules) Maintenance Main MenuTable of ContentsstYou should check the following items at the specified intervals. If you are unsure of how to perform any check, turn to the page given. Owner Maintenance Checks Tires — Check the tire pressure monthly. Examine the tread for wear and foreign objects. See page 197. Lights — Check the operation of the headlights, parking lights, taillights, high-mount brake light, turn signals, brake lights, and license plate lights monthly. See page 203. Engine oil level — Check every time you fill the fuel tank. See page 123. Engine coolant level — Check the radiator reserve tank every time you fill the fuel tank. See page 124. Windshield washer fluid — Check the level in the reservoir monthly. If weather conditions cause you to use the washers frequently, check the reservoir each time you stop for fuel. See page 182. Automatic transmission — Check the fluid level monthly. See page 183. Brakes — Check the fluid level monthly. See page 185. Maintenance Main MenuTable of ContentsstFluid Locations ENGINE OIL FILL CAP COOLANT RESERVOIR AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSION FLUID DIPSTICK (Yellow loop) Maintenance BRAKE FLUID (Gray cap) (5-speed Manual Transmission only) CLUTCH FLUID (Gray cap) POWER STEERING FLUID (Red cap) WASHER FLUID (Blue cap) ENGINE OIL DIPSTICK (Orange loop) Main MenuTable of ContentsstAdding Oil ENGINE OIL FILL CAP To add oil, unscrew and remove the engine oil fill cap on top of the valve cover. Pour in the oil, and replace the engine oil fill cap. Tighten it securely. Wait a few minutes and recheck the oil level. Do not fill above the upper mark; you could damage the engine. Recommended Oil Oil is a major contributor to your engine's performance and longevity. Always use a premium-grade deter- gent oil. You can determine an oil's SAE viscosity and Service Classification from the API Service label on the oil container. A fuel-efficient oil is recommended for your Honda. This is shown on the API Service label by the words "Energy Conserving". This oil is formulated to help your engine use less fuel. Engine Oil The API Service label also tells you the service classification of the oil. Always use an oil that is labeled "API Service SJ". This service rating may include other classifications, such as CD. These additional classifications are not a problem, as long as the label also carries the SJ classification. API SERVICE LABEL CONTINUED Maintenance Main MenuTable of ContentsstEngine Oil

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1998 Honda Prelude Owners Manual